Busy schedules have made ready-to-eat meals more appealing than ever, especially when they come from a retailer known for value and quality. For many shoppers, grabbing a prepared meal that feels fresh and satisfying can make weekday lunches far less stressful, here comes Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad into the picture.
Costco Launched a New Pesto Pasta Salad
In January 2026, Costco shoppers spotted a new prepared option in stores that immediately caught attention: a pesto pasta salad made with one of the retailer’s most popular pantry staples. Built around Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto, the new meal is designed for members who want something flavorful without spending time cooking.
Early reactions suggest the salad is already becoming a go-to fridge staple for lunch breaks, quick dinners, and easy entertaining.
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Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Overview
| Aspect | Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Kirkland Signature Pesto Pasta Salad |
| Category | Ready-to-eat prepared meal |
| Key Ingredient | Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto |
| Pasta Type | Trottole (spiral-shaped pasta) |
| Additional Ingredients | Roasted tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, arugula |
| Price | $5.99 per pound |
| Approximate Tub Cost | Around $18–$20 |
| Shelf Life | Short, typically a few days |
Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Popularity
Costco has built a strong reputation for prepared foods that balance convenience with quality. From wraps and sandwiches to soups and salads, these meals are designed for members who want reliable options without committing to full meal prep.
One reason these items resonate is portion size. Many Costco prepared foods are large enough to last several meals, making them practical for families or busy professionals. At the same time, the flavors often feel elevated compared to standard grab-and-go grocery meals.
The pesto pasta salad fits neatly into this category, offering a familiar yet flavorful option that works equally well as a standalone lunch or a side dish.
Why Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Stand Out?
At the heart of the salad is Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto, a product that already has a loyal following. Known for its fresh basil flavor, garlicky aroma, and rich texture, the pesto gives the dish an instant flavor boost.
The base of trottole pasta is key as well. Its spiral shape holds onto sauce effectively, ensuring each bite is well-coated. Slow-roasted tomatoes add sweetness and depth, while mozzarella pearls bring creaminess without overpowering the dish.
Arugula rounds everything out with a subtle peppery note, helping balance the richness of the pesto and cheese. Together, the ingredients create a pasta salad that feels cohesive rather than heavy.
Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad: Shoppers Reaction
Social media buzz has played a major role in the salad’s early popularity. When the item was shared by Costco-focused accounts, comments poured in from members eager to try it.
Many shoppers praised the flavor after sampling it in-store, describing it as fresh, cheesy, and satisfying. Some immediately started thinking about ways to customize it, with rotisserie chicken being one of the most popular add-ins suggested.
Not all reactions were positive, however. A few members pointed out the short expiration window and higher total price per tub, which may give budget-conscious shoppers pause.
Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Price & Portion Size
Priced at $5.99 per pound, the pesto pasta salad can add up quickly due to its generous tub size. Many shoppers report the total cost landing near $20, which may feel steep for a pasta-based dish.
Shelf life is another factor. Because the salad is made fresh, it typically expires within a couple of days. For small households or solo shoppers, this may make it harder to justify buying the full tub.
That said, for families, gatherings, or meal-sharing situations, the portion size can be a benefit rather than a drawback, especially when time is limited.
Easy Ways to Customize the Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad
One of the biggest advantages of this pasta salad is its flexibility. Adding protein like Costco’s rotisserie chicken can quickly turn it into a more filling meal.
Other easy additions include chickpeas, grilled vegetables, or extra greens to stretch the salad across more servings. Some shoppers also like adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors further.
Because the base is relatively neutral, it adapts well to personal preferences without losing its core appeal.
How to Make a Budget-Friendly Version of New Pesto Pasta Salad at Home?
For those who love the idea but not the price, recreating a smaller batch at home is simple. Start with cooked pasta, add vegetables of choice, and use a few spoonfuls of Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto as the dressing.
This approach allows you to control portion size, ingredients, and freshness while still enjoying the same signature flavor. Refrigerating the salad for a short time helps the flavors blend, closely mimicking the store-bought version.
Homemade versions also make it easier to experiment with variations, such as antipasto-style additions like salami, olives, or roasted peppers.
Who This Costco’s New Pesto Pasta Salad Is Best Suited For?
The pesto pasta salad works best for shoppers who value convenience and enjoy bold, herby flavors. It’s ideal for office lunches, quick dinners, or as a ready-made side for gatherings.
Families and frequent Costco shoppers may find the price more reasonable given the portion size, while single shoppers may prefer to split the tub or recreate it at home.
Ultimately, it’s a meal designed for flexibility—easy to eat as-is, but just as easy to customize.
FAQs
What is the new Costco pesto pasta salad made with?
It features trottole pasta, roasted tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, arugula, and Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto.
How much does the pesto pasta salad cost?
It is priced at $5.99 per pound, with full tubs costing around $18–$20.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
It typically has a short shelf life, often expiring within a few days of purchase.
Can I add protein to the salad?
Yes, many shoppers recommend adding rotisserie chicken or other proteins to make it more filling.
By combining convenience with one of its most loved Kirkland products, Costco has created a ready-to-eat meal that’s hard to ignore for pesto fans. Thanks for reading, and happy Costco shopping.
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